PAIR Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi «Balloon» – Papiliochromis – Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid (1 MALE & 1 FEMALE)

The Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi «Balloon» – Papiliochromis – Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid is a stunning and distinctive fish known for its balloon-like appearance. With its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, it is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts. This fish belongs to the category of Dwarf Cichlids, which are known for their small size and peaceful temperament.

Scientific and Common Names:
– Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi
– Common Names: Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid, Balloon Ram

Habitat:
– The Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi is native to the Orinoco River basin in South America, specifically Venezuela and Colombia.
– It inhabits slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded areas with dense vegetation.

Tank Setup:
– A tank size of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a pair of Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi.
– Provide plenty of hiding spots with rocks, caves, and driftwood.
– Dense vegetation, such as live plants, should be included to mimic their natural habitat.
– The water should be well-filtered and maintained at a temperature range of 78-84°F (25-29°C) with a pH level of 6.0-7.0.

Diet and Nutrition:
– The Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid is an omnivorous fish.
– Their diet should consist of high-quality flake or pellet food supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
– It is important to provide a varied diet to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Size and Growth Rate:
– The Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi has an average size of 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length.
– They have a relatively slow growth rate compared to other fish species.

Behavioral Traits:
– The Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid is known for its peaceful nature, making it suitable for community aquariums.
– They are generally non-aggressive towards other fish but can become territorial during breeding.
– They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring their surroundings.

Care Level:
– The care level for the Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi is considered moderate.
– Regular water parameter monitoring and maintenance are necessary to ensure their well-being.
– Providing a well-balanced diet and a suitable tank setup is crucial for their overall health.

Breeding and Reproduction:
– Balloon Rams are known to be relatively easy to breed in captivity.
– They are monogamous and form pairs.
– The female will lay eggs on a flat surface, which the male will fertilize and guard.
– The eggs will hatch in approximately 3-4 days, and the parents will continue to care for the fry until they are able to swim and feed on their own.

Health and Disease Prevention:
– To maintain the health of the Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi, it is important to provide a clean and well-maintained aquarium.
– Regular water changes and proper filtration are essential.
– Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Optimal Water Conditions:
– Temperature: 78-84°F (25-29°C)
– pH Level: 6.0-7.0
– Hardness: 5-15 dGH

Lifespan:
– The average lifespan of the Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi is around 2-3 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 5 years or more.

Additional Interesting Facts:
– The “Balloon” variation of the Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi is known for its rounded body shape, which gives it a unique and eye-catching appearance.
– They are highly sought after by aquarists due to their vibrant colors, including shades of yellow, orange, and blue.
– The Balloon Ram Dwarf Cichlid is a peaceful fish that can be kept with other small, non-aggressive species in a community aquarium.
– They are known to exhibit interesting behaviors, such as digging in the substrate and forming territories.
– The Mikrogeophagus Ramirezi is a popular choice for aquascaping due to its small size and striking appearance.